TACOMA, Wash. – Washington Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Department of Defense program, announced Tacoma Fire Department, signed a Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve during the presentation of an ESGR Patriot Award to Battalion Chief Doug Kimball.

The Statement of Support confirms Tacoma Fire Department joins other employers in pledging:

• We fully recognize, honor and comply with the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act (USERRA).
• We will provide our managers and supervisors with the tools they need to effectively manage employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve.
• We appreciate the values, leadership and unique skills service members bring to the workforce and will encourage opportunities to hire Guardsmen, Reservists and Veterans.
• We will continually recognize and support our country’s service members and their families, in peace, in crises and in war.

“Today, supportive employers are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s Guard and Reserve units,” said Jim Miller, Washington ESGR awards director.  “I am asking all Washington employers to take a look at their current human resources policies to incorporate policies supportive of Guard and Reserve employees.”  Many state name employers provide support above and beyond their legal requirements by law by offering pay-differential to offset the loss of wages, and extension of health care benefits, which complement coverage provided by the military, when their employees mobilize.”

When asked about the criteria, Miller said, “By meeting the Statement of Support criteria, Tacoma Fire Departmentpledges to stand proudly with its Guard and Reserve employees, who continue to answer their nation’s call to support our communities at home and critical missions throughout the world.  Their sacrifices are essential to the strength of our nation.”
“Tacoma Fire Department joins a cadre of Fortune 500 companies, state and federal, agencies and thousands of America’s employers in demonstrating support for our armed forces,” added Miller.  “By signing the Statement of Support, Tacoma Fire Department is sending a clear message to its employees that while they are serving their country, they do not have to worry about their civilian jobs.”

ESGR is a Department of Defense program that develops and promotes supportive work environments for service members in the National Guard and Reserve through outreach, recognition, and educational opportunities that increase awareness of applicable laws. ESGR also provides assistance in resolving conflicts between Service members and their employers.

For more information about ESGR outreach programs or volunteer opportunities, call 1-800-336-4590 or visit http://www.esgr.mil/wa.

Photo caption: Tacoma Fire Department Chief Toryono Green signing an. ESGR Statement of Support at the presentation of an ESGR Patriot Award to Battalion Chief Doug Kimball.